Safe travel destinations 2026 just shifted under your feet. You’re looking at Cuba deals when the advisory hits—power outages, supply shortages, exercise caution. Your February getaway needs a new map. Netherlands claims the #1 spot globally, but cyclists have right of way and move fast. Iceland wins the Global Peace Index again, but volcanoes occasionally ground flights. Martinique offers direct flights from Toronto, but you’ve never heard of Fort-de-France.

The #1 ranked country isn’t necessarily your safest choice. Netherlands tops the list for acceptance of diverse travelers and healthcare, but even there, watch the bike lanes. Japan has the lowest violent crime rate in Asia-Pacific, walks safe at all hours. Meanwhile, Barbados and Saint Lucia carry “normal precautions” ratings while parts of Mexico warn “high degree of caution.” Same region, different risk profiles. Austria delivers old-world charm without security concerns of Paris or Rome, both of which warn about pickpocketing despite being in “safe” countries.

The ranking tells you where to book. The specific warning tells you what to watch when you’re actually there. Check Travel.gc.ca before you pay, because safe doesn’t mean risk-free, and advisories change faster than your flight can board.

Topics: travel safety rankings, Cuba travel advisory, safest countries 2026, Caribbean alternatives, European destinations, Global Peace Index

Originally aired on2026-02-04